There are some calls we just don't want to hear.
For a Florida deputy originally from the Northeast, his first alligator call probably ranked right up there.
But this "rite of passage" for the Pinellas County deputy went well, with the Sheriff's Office saying he handled it "like a pro."
Watch bodycam video with us as the deputy captures a small but very active gator hanging out near a home July 8, 2026.
With a leash, tape, patience, and some helpful citizens, the deputy got the gator to safer waters, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office said.
The office described the episode as a “Florida deputy rite of passage“ and said the deputy wrangled the gator "like a pro."
The deputy can be heard on the video saying "it's not too bad" as he approached the gator
and lassoed the gator, encouraging it to tire itself out before picking it up.
After putting the gator into the back seat of the patrol car, the deputy said, "I feel bad for whoever sits back there with him."
How many alligators are there in Florida?
An estimated 1.3 million alligators are in Florida and can be found in all 67 counties, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
They can be found in practically all fresh and brackish water bodies and occasionally in salt water.
What are chances of being bitten by alligator?
Over the last 10 years, Florida has averaged eight unprovoked bites per year that are serious enough to require professional medical treatment.
The likelihood of a Florida resident being seriously injured during an unprovoked alligator incident in Florida is roughly only one in 3.1 million, according to FWC.
Is it illegal to feed alligators?
Most alligators are naturally afraid of humans but may lose that fear when people feed them. Feeding alligators teaches them to associate people with food.
For that reason,it is illegal in Florida to feed wild alligators.
Tips to avoid alligators
- Be aware of the possible presence of alligators when in or near fresh or brackish water
- Closely supervise children when they are playing in or around water.
- Never swim outside of posted swimming areas.
- Swim only during daylight hours. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Do not allow pets to swim, exercise or drink in or near waters that may contain alligators or in designated swimming areas with humans. Dogs are more susceptible to being bitten than humans because dogs resemble the natural prey of alligators. The sound of dogs barking and playing may draw an alligator to thearea.
- Never feed or entice alligators.
- Dispose of fish scraps in garbage cans at boat ramps and fish camps; do not throw them in the water.
- Observe and photograph alligators only from a safe distance.
- Never remove an alligator from its natural habitat or accept one as a pet. It is illegal and dangerous to do so. Handling even small alligators can result in injury.
Cheryl McCloud is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://heraldtribune.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Bodycam video shows Florida deputy wrestling gator in 'rite of passage'
